3 Fixes for a Slow Computer

One of the most common complaints that we receive is a slow computer.  Have you noticed that your computer is running slower than normal lately?  Here are 3 quick things that you should do before paying to have the computer diagnosed by an IT professional. 

1. Check Internet Speed

If Type “speed test” into Google or any other search engine. Be cautious here, as some websites will have suspicious ads flashing in hopes that you click on them. A simple speed test from Google looks like this:

Compare the results to what your internet service provider (ISP) says you are paying for. On your monthly bill, you should see the numbers of upload and download that you are purchasing. These are minimum numbers that the ISP is guaranteeing. If you aren’t receiving the minimum, call your internet provider as they have the responsibility to deliver those speeds consistently.

2. How is your CPU Running?

Check your CPU performance.  In Windows 10, you would go to Cortana in the bottom left of your screen and type in “task manager.” Open the task manager app, and then click on the tab that says “Performance.” You will likely see a graph that looks like this:

Don’t worry about the spike in the beginning. What you are looking for is how your CPU is running normally. This computer is in good running condition. Conversely, when the line is consistently running at maximum, the CPU is not able to process all the data that it is getting bombarded with. The CPU will continue to attempt to process all the commands and data, but it will take them in the order they are received, and everything will slow down until the processor catches up. If your computer is relatively young and has enough memory to run the Operating System you have installed, you are likely looking at a malware infection.

3. Run an Anti-Malware Program

Have a good quality anti-malware program.  An anti-malware program, such as Malwarebytes, will clean the malware from your computer. Malware can best be described as tiny little chunks of program code attached to your downloads that often run silently in the background. Malware can infect your computer to give hackers access to your data, and log your keystrokes. It can even turn on your camera and other equipment attached to your computer. In addition, it can encrypt your files and hold them for ransom, track your browsing and search history, and other nefarious things that invade your privacy. Cleaning your computer regularly is necessary to prevent major problems from occurring. At minimum, your home computers should be scanned daily. Business computers should receive a quick scan every 4-6 hours with a full scan daily. 

Take a few moments to do this routine maintenance. It could save you costly repairs and/or recovery of your data in the future. 

If you are still having problems, call A Better Choice Network Solutions at (813) 605-7251 to protect your data, your company and your income.

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